Global Infrared Detector Market Overview
The Infrared Detector Market size was valued at USD 725.39 Million in 2024. The Infrared Detector industry is projected to grow from USD 774.72 Million in 2025 to USD 1,742.01 million by 2035, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.90% during the forecast period (2025-2035).
The Increasing Demand for Advanced Surveillance System are driving the growth of the market.
As per Analyst at MRFR, “The increasing demand for advanced security and surveillance systems is significantly driving the growth of the infrared detector market. As security concerns grow globally, particularly in urban areas, the need for reliable monitoring solutions that function in low-light or no-light conditions has risen. Infrared detectors, which enable night vision and heat signature detection, have become essential components of modern security systems. Infrared LEDs and sensors have revolutionized the security and surveillance sector. Infrared illumination has become essential for low-light and night time surveillance cameras.”
FIGURE 1: INFRARED DETECTOR MARKET VALUE (2019-2035) USD Million

Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database, and Analyst Review
- Infrared Detector Market Opportunity
The Integration of Infrared Detectors in Internet of Things and Smart Devices
The integration of infrared (IR) detectors in the Internet of Things (IoT) and smart devices presents a significant opportunity for the growth of the infrared detector market. As IoT and smart technologies continue to gain momentum across various sectors, the demand for advanced, energy-efficient sensors, including IR detectors, is rapidly increasing. IR detectors can enhance the functionality of IoT devices by enabling non-contact temperature measurement, motion detection, and environmental monitoring, contributing to smarter and more responsive systems. A real-time example of this opportunity is the use of IR sensors in smart home devices. Companies like Nest (owned by Google) integrate IR-based motion sensors in smart thermostats and security cameras. For example, the Nest Thermostat uses an IR sensor to detect the presence of people in a room, adjusting the heating or cooling based on occupancy, thus optimizing energy consumption. Similarly, IR sensors in smart security cameras, such as those offered by Arlo, enable motion detection and night vision, allowing homeowners to monitor their property efficiently in both daylight and darkness.
Infrared Detector Market Segment Insights
Infrared Detector Type Insights
By Type, the segment includes Thermal Infrared Detectors and Photonic Infrared Detectors . Thermal infrared detectors are devices that measure temperature changes caused by infrared radiation. Thermal detectors is to take advantages of the thermal effect to heat the detection element and cause heat transformation of some physical properties so that the IR radiation energy can be detected. Thermal detectors are frequently used in spectral regions which are difficult to access with photon detectors – in particular, for long-wavelength infrared light. Also, they are used where their low speed, moderate sensitivity and low dynamic range is no serious problem – for example, as optical power meters for lasers. Thermal detector works at room temperature. During its operation, there are temperature changes, which may have slow response and a relatively low sensitivity compared with photon detectors. There are mainly 4 types of the infrared thermal detector: Thermocouple/Thermopile, Pyroelectric Detector, Thermistor/Bolometer, Microbolometer
FIGURE 2: INFRARED DETECTOR MARKET SHARE BY TYPE 2024 and 2035 (USD Million)

Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
Infrared Detector Wavelength Insights
By Wavelength, the segment is bifurcated into Near-Infrared (NIR), Mid-Wavelength Infrared (MWIR) and Long-Wavelength Infrared (LWIR). Long-wave infrared and technology get used in actual military operations. These cameras detect thermal emissions from people, animals, and vehicles when they emit heat at higher temperatures than the surrounding atmosphere. LWIR are less sensitive to thermal “noise” in the environment and thus are useful outdoors. They can “see” through foliage to detect heat emissions from enemy fighters, dangerous predators, or hidden vehicles. They can also detect roadway hazards in very dark conditions helping to avoid collisions with animals or vehicle damage by unexpected potholes or washed-out areas. Long-wave infrared or LWIR is a subset of the infrared band of the electromagnetic spectrum, covering the wavelengths ranging from 8µm to 14µm (8,000 to 14,000nm). This is the radiant heat that uncooled thermal imaging cameras see. Uncooled LWIR thermal imaging can be more affordable than cooled MWIR thermal imaging, as the sensors require less complex components and less ongoing maintenance.
Infrared Detector Application Insights
By Application, the segment is bifurcated into Security and Surveillance, Gas Detection, Temperature Measurement and Others. Infrared detectors are widely employed in temperature measurement applications due to their ability to measure the heat emitted by objects without making physical contact. These non-contact infrared thermometers or thermal sensors detect the infrared radiation emitted by an object’s surface, and by analyzing this radiation, they can accurately determine the object's temperature. This capability is particularly useful in situations where direct contact with the object is impractical, hazardous, or impossible, such as in high-temperature environments, moving machinery, or hard-to-reach areas. In industries like manufacturing, HVAC, automotive, and electronics, infrared temperature measurement allows for continuous monitoring of equipment, ensuring proper functioning, identifying overheating components, and preventing potential failures.
Infrared Detector End User Industries Insights
By End User Industry, the segment is bifurcated into Defense and Aerospace, Automotive, Healthcare, Industrial Manufacturing and Others. Infrared detectors play a critical role in the defense and aerospace industries, where they are used for a variety of advanced applications such as surveillance, targeting, navigation, and threat detection. In defense, infrared sensors are integral to night-vision systems, allowing military personnel to observe and track targets in low-light or complete darkness by detecting the infrared radiation emitted by warm objects. They are also used in missile guidance systems, where they help accurately track and lock onto targets based on their heat signatures. In aerospace, infrared detectors are used in various applications, including aircraft and spacecraft thermal imaging, detecting engine or structural malfunctions, and monitoring environmental conditions.
Infrared Detector Regional Insights
By Region, the study provides market insights into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of the World. North America, consisting of the US, Canada, and Mexico, stands at the forefront of technological innovation in Infrared Detector market. The North American Infrared Detector market is growing due to several factors. The North American infrared (IR) detector market is growing rapidly, driven by advancements in technology and an increasing demand for applications across industries like automotive, healthcare, security, and consumer electronics. Infrared detectors are essential for capturing heat signatures, enabling devices to detect temperature changes and produce images or data based on infrared radiation.
Europe, consisting of the Germany, UK, France, Russia, Italy, Spain and Rest of Europe, stands at the forefront of technological innovation in Infrared Detector market. The Europe Infrared Detector market is growing due to several factors. The infrared (IR) detector market in Europe is experiencing significant growth, fueled by technological advancements and the increasing adoption of infrared technology across various industries such as automotive, aerospace, healthcare, and security. As infrared detectors are essential for sensing heat and capturing thermal radiation, they are widely used for both commercial and industrial applications. In the automotive industry, for example, European car manufacturers like Mercedes-Benz and Audi integrate infrared detectors into their vehicles for night vision systems, which enhance driver safety by detecting pedestrians, animals, and other obstacles in low-visibility conditions. A notable real-time example is the Audi A8, which uses infrared cameras with thermal imaging technology to provide clearer visibility at night.
Asia Pacific, consisting of the China, India, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia and Rest of Asia-Pacific stands at the forefront of technological innovation in Infrared Detector market. The Asia Pacific, Infrared Detector market is growing due to several factors. The infrared (IR) detector market in the Asia Pacific region is expanding rapidly, driven by increasing technological adoption, industrialization, and the growing demand for smart solutions in sectors like automotive, consumer electronics, healthcare, and security. The region is home to major manufacturers and innovators, particularly in countries such as China, Japan, South Korea, and India, which are at the forefront of infrared technology development.
Middle East and Africa, consisting of the GCC Countries, South Africa and Rest of Middle East & Africa, stands at the forefront of technological innovation in Infrared Detector market. The Middle East and Africa Infrared Detector market is growing due to several factors. driven by increasing investments in infrastructure, security, and industrial sectors, along with a rising demand for advanced technologies in both consumer and industrial applications. Countries in this region are increasingly adopting infrared detectors for applications in security, oil and gas, and automotive industries, as well as for medical purposes.
South America, consisting of the Brazil, Argentina and Rest of South America, stands at the forefront of technological innovation in Infrared Detector market. The South America Infrared Detector market is growing due to several factors. driven by the increasing adoption of advanced technologies across industries such as automotive, agriculture, healthcare, and security. The region is seeing greater investment in infrastructure and technology, which is fueling demand for infrared solutions in both urban and rural settings.
FIGURE 3: INFRARED DETECTOR MARKET VALUE BY REGION 2024 and 2035 (USD Million)

Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database, and Analyst Review
Further, the countries considered in the scope of the Infrared Detector Market are the US, Canada, Mexico, UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Sweden, Romania, Ireland, China, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, South Korea, Hong Kong, Macau, Singapore, Brunei, India, Australia & New Zealand, South Africa, Egypt, Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, and others.
Infrared Detector Key Market Players & Competitive Insights
Major market players are spending a lot of money on R&D to increase their product lines, which will help the Infrared Detector market grow even more. Market participants are also taking a range of strategic initiatives to grow their footprint globally, with key market developments such as new product launches, contractual agreements, mergers and acquisitions, increased investments, and collaboration with other organizations. Competitors in the Infrared Detector industry must offer cost-effective items to expand and survive in an increasingly competitive and rising market environment.
In the competitive Infrared Detector industry, companies are driving innovation by developing integrated Infrared Detector solutions with strong compatibility and scalable connectivity options. According to MRFR analysis, the key players in the Infrared Detector sector include Excelitas Technologies Corp, Hamamatsu Photonics K.K , Murata Manufacturing Co. Ltd., Nippon Ceramics Co, Infratech GmbH, Lynred, Panasonic, Guide Infrared, Teledyne Digital Imaging Inc, Honeywell Internation Inc,
These companies continue to shape the market by innovating and expanding their Offering Type which include Product and Services. Established companies like Honeywell International Inc, Panasonic Corporation and others have significant competitive advantages due to their strong brand recognition, extensive distribution networks, and substantial investments in technology and innovation.
Excelitas Technologies Corp. is a global photonics technology company specializing in delivering innovative solutions across a range of industries. The company serves diverse markets, including biomedical, scientific, safety, security, consumer products, semiconductor manufacturing, industrial applications, defense, and aerospace. Established in 2010 as an independent entity following its spin-off from PerkinElmer, Excelitas has consistently expanded its technological capabilities and market reach through both organic growth and strategic acquisitions.Excelitas operates with a workforce of over 6,709 professionals distributed across North America, Europe, and Asia. Its global presence includes 18 advanced photonics manufacturing facilities and 10 administrative and support offices in 11 countries. The company provides comprehensive solutions in sensing, detection, imaging, optics, and specialty illumination, enabling its customers to meet critical performance and reliability requirements. Excelitas’ offerings cater to leading OEMs and end-users in industries such as life sciences, advanced industrial processes, next-generation semiconductors, and aerospace and defense
Key Companies in the Infrared Detector Market include
- Excelitas Technologies Corp
- Hamamatsu Photonic K.K
- Murata Manufacturing Co. Ltd.
- Nippon Ceramic Co.
- Infratech GmbH
- Lynred
- Panasonic
- Guide Infrared
- Teledyne Digital Imaging Inc.
- Honeywell International Inc
Infrared Detector Market Industry Developments
December 2024 : Hamamatsu Photonics has launched the C17212-011, a RoHS-compliant mid-infrared detector module with a built-in preamplifier. Designed for room temperature operation, it features InAsSb photodetectors, minimizing temperature crosstalk. With a fast 10 MHz response rate, it is ideal for gas analysis, FTIR spectrometry, and CO2 laser monitoring, offering customizable wavelength sensitivity.
January 2025: Murata's SCH16T-K10 sensor, an upgrade from the SCH16T-K01, offers a 10x greater dynamic range, with a 2000 °/s gyroscope and 16g accelerometer measurement range. Designed for high-demand applications like drone flight controllers and robotics, it excels in vibration resistance, mechanical robustness, and precise measurements in dynamic, high-shock environments.
January 2020: Murata inaugurated a new 16,000 square meter factory in Vantaa, Finland, on January 29, 2020, with a EUR 42 million investment. The expanded facility manufactures MEMS sensors for car safety systems, healthcare, and ADAS. This expansion strengthens Murata’s production capabilities and MEMS technology expertise to meet growing demand in autonomous driving and healthcare.
February 2021: Nippon Ceramic Co., Ltd. has introduced the D-Pyro digital PIR sensor, which requires no analog circuits. It offers versatile digital communication (UART/I2C), low power consumption (2.5μA), and wide voltage range (1.8V–5.5V). Key features include wake-up trigger, peak hold function, software-configurable amplification, and excellent EMC performance. Ideal for motion detection, security, and energy management applications.
Infrared Detector Market Segmentation
Infrared Detector Type Outlook
- Thermal Infrared Detectors
- Photonic Infrared detectors
Infrared Detector Wavelength Outlook
- Near Infrared
- Mid Wavelength Infrared
- Long Wavelength Infrared
Infrared Detector Application Outlook
- Security and Surveillance
- Gas Detection
- Temperature Measurement
- Others
Infrared Detector End User Industry Outlook
- Defense and Aerospace
- Automotive
- Healthcare
- Industrial Manufacturing
- Others
Infrared Detector Regional Outlook
- North America
- Europe
- Germany
- France
- UK
- Rest of Europe
- Asia-Pacific
- China
- Japan
- India
- Rest of Asia-Pacific
- Middle East & Africa
- South America
Report Attribute/Metric
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Details
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Market Size 2024
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USD Â 725.39 Â million
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Market Size 2025
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USD 774.72 million
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Market Size 2035
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USD 1,742.01 million
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Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR)
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8.90 % (2018-2035)
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Base Year
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2024
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Forecast Period
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2025-2035
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Historical Data
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2019-2023
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Forecast Units
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Value (USD Million)
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Report Coverage
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Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends
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Segments Covered
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Type, Wavelength, Application , End User Industry and Region
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Geographies Covered
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North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, and South America
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Countries Covered
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The U.S, Canada, Mexico, Germany, France, UK, China, Japan, India, Australia, South Korea, UAE, and Brazil
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Key Companies Profiled
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Excelitas Technologies Corp, Hamamatsu Photonics K.K , Murata Manufacturing Co. Ltd., Nippon Ceramics Co, Infratech GmbH, Lynred, Panasonic, Guide Infrared, Teledyne Digital Imaging Inc, Honeywell Internation Inc,
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Key Market Opportunities
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·        The Integration of Infrared Detectors in Internet of Things and Smart Devices
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Key Market Dynamics
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·        The Increasing Demand for Advanced Security and Surveillance System
·        The Expanding Application in Automotive Industry
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) :
USD 725.39 Million in 2024
Excelitas Technologies Corp, Hamamatsu Photonics K.K , Murata Manufacturing Co. Ltd., Nippon Ceramics Co, Infratech GmbH, Lynred, Panasonic, Guide Infrared,
The Thermal Infrared Detectors dominated the market in 2024